Comparing the Functional Analysis of Baska ® Mask with I-gel in Short Surgeries - A Prospective Randomized Trial

We have compared sealing pressure, usability, and complications of two second-generation supraglottic airway devices-Baska ® mask and I-gel.

The study design involves prospective randomized controlled trial.

The study was undertaken involving 44 patients of the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II, aged 20-70 years, who underwent surgical procedures of short duration under general anesthesia. Patients were randomly categorized into two groups of 22 each: Group B (Baska ® mask) and Group I (I-gel). The main objective was to compare oropharyngeal leak pressure (OLP).

Continuous variables were compared between the two groups using an unpaired t -test. Categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test and insertion attempts using Fisher's exact test.

Group B had significantly higher mean OLP (32.22 ± 2.52 cmH 2 O vs. 26.18 ± 2.42 cmH 2 O, P < 0.001). In Group I, 97.1% of patients had very easy insertion (Grade 1), 2.9% had easy insertion (Grade 2) and Group B had very easy insertion in 50% of patients, easy in 36.4%, and difficult in 13.6% of patients ( P = 0.009). Group B took a longer time for successful insertion than Group I (39.89 ± 7.15 s vs. 28.19 ± 3.29 s, P < 0.001).

For positive pressure ventilation, both I-gel and Baska ® masks proved to be successful, with I-gel being easier and quicker to insert. It is possible to employ the Baska ® mask with superior seal pressures as an alternative to endotracheal intubation in elective surgeries if there are no patient contraindications.